Philip II of Macedon was a famous king who vanquished Athens and Thebes at the Battle of Chaeronea. He aspired to build the League of Corinth, a federation of Greek states, with himself as the elected hegemon (leader). ¹⁾

Philip transformed the Macedonian army into the most lethal force of the period by developing his infantry phalanx, cavalry, siege equipment, and logistical system. Alexander received the best army of the time as a result of Philip's reforms. ²⁾

Alexander was educated by one of history's most prominent philosophers. Philip II hired Aristotle on the condition that he restore his home, Stageria, which he had previously destroyed. ³⁾

In the spring of 335 BC, Alexander sought to fortify his northern boundaries and put down multiple revolts. He vanquished many tribes and states before razing a rebellious Thebes. He then began his Asia campaign. ⁴⁾

When Alexander crossed into Asia Minor in 334 BC, he was met by a Persian army waiting on the other side of the Granicus river. In the ensuing attack, Alexander was nearly kiled. ⁵⁾

After tremendous bloodshed, Alexander's army triumphed and routed the Persian army. Despite their attempts to surrender, Alexander encircled and murdered the Greek mercenaries serving alongside the Persians. ⁶⁾

In 333 BC, he decisively defeated the Persian King Darius III at Issus (modern-day Syria). Alexander's army was possibly half the size of Darius', but the narrow battleground insured that Darius' higher numbers were insignificant. ⁷⁾

Darius retreated eastwards after a Macedonian triumph. Darius' abandoned baggage train, with the Persian King's sumptuous royal tent, mother, and wife, was promptly captured by Alexander. Alexander assured them that they would not be harmed. ⁸⁾

After defeating Darius again in 331 BC, one of his satraps overthrew him and assassinated him (barons). Darius effectively ended the Achaemenid dynasty, and Alexander became king of both Persia and Macedon. ⁹⁾